Top-Paying States for Registered Nurses (RNs) - 2024

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for registered nurses was $77,600 in May 2021. The highest-paying states for RNs were:

* California: $124,060

* Massachusetts: $118,470

* Hawaii: $116,460

* New Jersey: $114,450

* Washington: $113,280

These states have a high cost of living, which is reflected in the higher salaries for RNs. However, RNs in these states also tend to have more education and experience, which can also impact their salaries.